Bladder wall substitution with synthetic and non-intestinal organic materials.
OBJECTIVE
We evaluate and compare the characteristics and drawbacks of different synthetic and organic materials that have been used for bladder wall replacement.


METHODS
We extensively reviewed the contemporary literature for partial bladder wall replacement with synthetic or organic materials.


RESULTS
The concept of bladder wall replacement dates back to the early nineteenth century. Based on the unique regenerative capability of the bladder, many organic and synthetic allografts and xenografts were implanted in the bladder wall with a wide range of outcomes. Recently, various biodegradable allografts have been developed and used successfully in animal models. Despite the favorable animal results, only a few of the materials have been used clinically for bladder wall replacement to date.


CONCLUSIONS
Further improvements in the use of existing materials and development of new materials will hopefully result in clinically successful grafts for bladder wall replacement and for whole bladder substitution.
Elbahnasy
A M
AM
Department of Surgery/Division of Urologic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Shalhav
A
A
Hoenig
D M
DM
Figenshau
R
R
Clayman
R V
RV
D000818:Animals; D001187:Artificial Organs; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D006801:Humans; D009852:Omentum / Q000637:transplantation; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D001743:Urinary Bladder / Q000601:surgery*; D001745:Urinary Bladder Diseases / Q000601:surgery*
D001672:Biocompatible Materials